Melissa Dennis

Death From Improvement

I watered myself weekly

Still my leaves drooped with hurt

So, I purchased the latest plant food

And sprayed its drops in my dirt.

 

I nourished myself regularly

Still my green shoots turned gray

So, I purchased the sharpest shears

And clipped all the bad parts away.

 

I manicured myself doggedly

And my stem remained sterile

So, I purchased a colorful pot

And hoped new mix would make me fertile.

 

I altered myself somberly

And my plant would not sprout

So, I moved myself to a different window

And wished that light would outshine doubt.